Passport Seva 2.0: India’s Digital Passport Revolution With e-Passports, Faster Police Verification & Seamless Services
Passport Seva 2.0: India’s Digital Passport Revolution With e-Passports, Faster Police Verification & Seamless Services
New Delhi | June 28, 2025: India’s passport services have seen a remarkable transformation over the past decade, blending technology, governance, and citizen-centric reforms. This shift was highlighted by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar on the occasion of Passport Seva Divas on June 24, 2025, where he acknowledged the program’s impact in improving passport delivery for millions of Indians.
Through a post on social media platform X, Dr. Jaishankar credited the change to the three pillars of governance — Seva (Service), Sushasan (Good Governance), and Garib Kalyan (Welfare) — all of which are now integrated into the Passport Seva Programme (PSP).
What Has Changed in India’s Passport Process?
Previously marred by delays and bureaucracy, the passport system in India has been significantly improved through digital intervention. From smoother online applications and scheduled appointments to better customer service and shorter wait times, the PSP has been a game-changer.
The Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) have extended services to Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, enabling students, migrant workers, and first-time applicants to access passport facilities without long-distance travel.
India Rolls Out Secure e-Passports
One of the biggest advancements is the launch of e-Passports — smart, microchip-embedded passports that store personal and biometric data securely.
Key features of e-passports:
- Embedded chip stores name, passport number, DOB, photo, and biometrics.
- Contactless scanning for faster immigration clearance.
- Tamper-proof and ICAO compliant, ensuring global acceptance.
- Enhanced security, reducing the risk of forgery or identity theft.
These e-passports are currently being issued in phases and are set to become standard for all new applicants in the coming years.
Faster Police Verification via mPassport Police App
To address one of the most time-consuming steps in passport issuance—police verification—the Ministry launched the mPassport Police App. Now used across 25 states and UTs, the app allows real-time, digital updates from the police to passport offices, cutting verification time down to just 5–7 days.
This has been especially beneficial for students and professionals, removing uncertainty from the process and reducing overall delays.
Towards a ‘Viksit Bharat’
The Passport Seva Programme reflects India’s vision of becoming a developed nation (Viksit Bharat) through efficient digital governance. With secure infrastructure, simplified processes, and a focus on inclusivity, India’s passport system now rivals those of developed countries.
With the continued rollout of e-passports, wider digital outreach, and rapid processing, India is setting a global benchmark in delivering efficient and secure passport services to its citizens.
